Is it expensive to fix a control arm?
Yes—replacing a control arm is usually a few hundred dollars, and can exceed a thousand dollars per arm depending on parts, labor, and vehicle.
Control arms are a key suspension component that links the wheel hub to the chassis while keeping wheels aligned and ride quality stable. When they wear, crack, or lose their bushings or ball joints, you typically need a replacement. Costs vary widely based on the car’s make and model, the type of arm (integrated ball joint or separate bushings), whether you use aftermarket or dealer parts, and the labor rate at the shop. This guide breaks down what drives price, what you can expect in the shop, and how to navigate the repair.
What is a control arm and how does it fail?
The control arm (or suspension arm) connects the chassis to the wheel hub assembly and helps maintain proper wheel alignment and handling. Failures can occur from pothole damage, wear over time, or corrosion, especially in regions with harsh winters. Symptoms include clunking noises when hitting bumps, wandering steering, uneven tire wear, and vibrations through the steering wheel. In many cars, the control arm houses a ball joint or has bushings that wear out, and some designs require replacing the entire arm rather than just the joint.
Cost ranges and what affects price
Prices are influenced by part type, labor, and vehicle specifics. Here is a rundown of the main cost drivers:
- Part cost: aftermarket control arms typically range from about $50 to $250 per arm; OEM or dealer replacements can run $150 to $600 or more, with premium or specialized vehicles often higher.
- Labor cost: most shops bill for about 1 to 3 hours of labor per arm, with hourly rates roughly $75 to $180 in the United States, depending on location and shop tier.
- Additional components and services: new ball joints or bushings, mounting hardware, and lubricants may be needed; alignment after replacement is common and adds to the bill.
- Vehicle and complexity factors: front-arm replacements are more common and typically less expensive than rear or all-wheel-drive setups; some vehicles require extra parts or special tools, increasing both parts and labor costs.
Understanding these factors helps you get a realistic estimate and avoid surprises. Always request an itemized quote and confirm whether wheel alignment is included or billed separately.
DIY vs professional repair
Replacement involves lifting the vehicle, supporting it safely, and ensuring correct torque and alignment. Many modern cars have integrated ball joints or bushings that require special tools or a hydraulic press, making professional service the safer and more reliable option for most home mechanics.
- DIY feasibility: some older or simpler designs may be DIY-friendly, but many modern suspensions require press tools and precise alignment checks.
- Tools and safety: you’ll need a jack, jack stands, torque wrench, and possibly a press or special ball joint tools; improper installation can compromise safety.
- Warranty and safety considerations: incorrect installation can void warranties and lead to unsafe handling or tire wear due to misalignment.
- Time and risk: DIY repairs can save money but may take longer and carry higher risk if you’re not experienced.
If you’re unsure about your ability, a reputable shop can provide a clear estimate, perform the alignment, and back the work with warranties on parts and labor.
What to expect at the repair shop
Here’s a typical sequence for a control arm replacement and what it means for cost and time:
- Inspection and diagnosis: technician confirms the problem and checks related components such as tie rods, ball joints, and bushings.
- Parts replacement: the faulty control arm is removed and replaced; if the arm includes a ball joint or bushings, these may be replaced as part of the arm.
- Wheel alignment: most shops include or offer a wheel alignment after replacement to restore proper geometry.
- Test drive and inspection: a road test verifies handling and checks for unusual noises or vibrations.
Time estimates vary by vehicle, but expect roughly 1–3 hours for a single arm replacement, with longer times if multiple components are involved or if an alignment requires extra steps.
Cost range by vehicle type
Rough cost guidance by vehicle category helps set expectations. Prices can vary by region and shop, so use these as a general framework and seek written quotes.
- Compact cars: parts roughly $100–$350 per arm; labor $120–$250; total around $300–$900 per arm.
- Midsize sedans and small SUVs: parts roughly $150–$500 per arm; labor $150–$300; total around $400–$1,100 per arm.
- Luxury or performance vehicles: parts often $250–$800+ per arm; labor $250–$500; total around $600–$2,000+ per arm.
These ranges are approximate and region-dependent. Always obtain a written, itemized estimate that separates parts, labor, and alignment charges, and ask about any warranties on the repair.
Summary
Fixing a control arm is a common but potentially expensive suspension repair. Costs depend on the vehicle, part choice, labor rates, and whether additional components or alignments are needed. For most buyers, budgeting several hundred to over a thousand dollars per arm is prudent, especially on newer or premium vehicles. Getting an itemized quote, understanding what’s included, and assessing DIY viability versus professional service will help you navigate the repair with clarity and safety.
How long does it take to replace a control arm?
Replacing a single control arm typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the vehicle and the technician's experience. This estimate is for the labor-intensive removal and installation process and doesn't include a mandatory wheel alignment, which is necessary afterward, especially for lower control arms. A more experienced DIYer might be able to complete the job on one side in around an hour, while a first-timer should expect to take up to 4 hours for one side.
Factors that affect replacement time
- Vehicle design: Some cars are more complex to work on than others.
- Technician's experience: A seasoned mechanic will be faster than a beginner.
- Rust and corrosion: Rusty bolts and parts can significantly increase the time required.
- DIY vs. professional: A DIYer will likely take longer than a professional shop that is used to the process, especially if they have to work without a lift.
- Wheel alignment: A wheel alignment is a necessary follow-up step and adds extra time to the overall repair process.
Is it worth replacing a control arm?
Yes, it is absolutely worth replacing bad control arms. It is a critical safety issue, as a complete failure can lead to a loss of steering control. It also prevents costly damage to your tires and other suspension parts.
How much should it cost to replace a control arm?
Replacing a control arm typically costs between $80 and $650 per arm, with the total price for replacing a pair often ranging from $400 to $1,000, including parts, labor, and a necessary wheel alignment. The final cost varies significantly based on factors like your vehicle's make and model, the type of part used (OEM vs. aftermarket), and labor rates at the repair shop.
This video explains the cost of replacing a control arm and what factors influence the price: 58sLearnToDIY360YouTube · Jul 28, 2025
Cost breakdown and factors
- Parts: The cost of a control arm itself can range from around $40 to over $500, depending on the brand and whether it's an OEM or aftermarket part.
- Labor: Labor is a significant part of the total cost. The time required depends on the vehicle, but it can range from several hours for one or two arms.
- Alignment: A wheel alignment is almost always needed after a control arm replacement to ensure proper suspension geometry and tire wear. This adds another cost to the total bill.
- Additional parts: Often, other related components like ball joints are replaced at the same time, which can increase the total expense.
Tips to reduce costs
- Get quotes from multiple repair shops to compare prices.
- Consider using reputable aftermarket parts instead of pricier OEM parts, notes Parts Avatar.
- Ask if the shop offers discounts on parts or labor.
- Look for promotions or coupons, but be sure to check the shop's warranty policies if you provide your own parts.
This video explains the signs of a bad control arm: 38sEasyAutoFixYouTube · Oct 5, 2024
Can I drive with a damaged control arm?
No, you should not drive with a bad control arm, as it is unsafe and can lead to a complete loss of control of the vehicle. A failing control arm can cause steering instability, vibrations, and strange noises, and if it breaks completely, it can cause a major accident. It is best to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
This video demonstrates the symptoms of a bad control arm: 1mFixITYouTube · Jul 26, 2024
Why driving with a bad control arm is dangerous
- Loss of control: A broken control arm can cause you to suddenly lose control of the car, making it a serious safety hazard.
- Steering instability: Worn or damaged control arms can cause steering to feel loose, pull to one side, or cause the steering wheel to shimmy or vibrate.
- Structural damage: Continued driving can lead to further damage to other suspension and steering components, resulting in more costly repairs.
- Poor braking: A failing control arm can affect stability, which can lead to reduced braking effectiveness.
This video shows how a failing control arm can cause steering instability: 48sPeter Finn the Car DoctorYouTube · Sep 1, 2018
What to do instead
- Do not drive the vehicle.
- Arrange for the vehicle to be towed to a trusted mechanic for inspection.
- Have the control arms and associated components (like bushings and ball joints) checked and replaced as needed to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.
